Energy Assistance-Crisis Intervention Program

The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) provides assistance to low-income households that are in a heating or cooling related emergency and have an income that is below 150% of poverty level.

An eligible household may receive assistance more than one time during the State's Fiscal Year (July 1-June 30).

The maximum benefit amount per household during any single Fiscal Year is $600. During the years in which North Carolina receives additional "emergency" CIP money from the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, families may receive up to $600 during one fiscal year period, with the maximum payment of $600 at any one time.

Crisis Intervention Services-What is Covered and Not Covered?

Program pays for:

Electric bills

Deposits

Fuel oil

Kerosene

Natural gas

Propane

Wood

Coal

Heaters

Furnace repairs

Fans

Program does NOT pay for:

Rent

Mortgage

Water

Prescription medications

Eligibility Requirements

A household that applies must:

Must be a Chatham County resident

Have at least one U.S. citizen or a non-citizen who meets certain eligibility criteria

Meet an income test (150% poverty level)

Be in a heating or cooling-related emergency

Must have received final notice for electric and gas utilities

Must have 5% oil or less in fuel storage tank, measured at extreme temperatures

Hours of Operation

Monday through Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

What to Bring with You

Verification of income

How Are Payments Made?

Payments are made directly to the vendors such as oil companies, gas companies, and power companies, etc.